World AIDS Day: A Time for Reflection and Action
December 1st marks World AIDS Day, an annual opportunity to take stock of the progress made in the fight against the disease, evaluate the effectiveness of actions taken, and assess the current state of contamination and propagation. It also allows us to identify areas where we need to focus our efforts to make the fight against AIDS more targeted, effective, and fruitful.
The Situation in Tunisia
In Tunisia, the approximate number of people living with HIV/AIDS recorded last year is around 2,000. Although this number is relatively low, the profile of people living with HIV/AIDS is changing, with more young, educated, and affluent individuals being affected. According to Ms. Aïda Mokrani, General Coordinator of Projects at the Tunisian Association for the Fight against Sexually Transmitted Diseases and AIDS (ATL MST/Sida), HIV/AIDS is increasingly affecting young people aged 18-20, who are educated and come from affluent backgrounds, but unfortunately engage in risky behaviors.
A Collective Effort
"The fight against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and HIV/AIDS requires a collective effort, involving not only state structures and civil society, but also families and educational institutions. We must be united in our response and establish a dialogue within families, schools, and communities to raise awareness, educate, and promote a culture of prevention," explains Ms. Mokrani.
Raising Awareness and Promoting Prevention
For nearly two decades, the response to AIDS and STDs has continued, with tactics changing to meet the needs of society and the target population. However, raising awareness and promoting prevention remain essential. It is crucial to emphasize the importance of avoiding risky behaviors, means of prevention, and providing information about the disease.
The Association's Efforts
The association has been working tirelessly to raise awareness and promote prevention. They travel to different regions to reach a wider audience and target young people in private schools, universities, and other institutions to provide information about HIV/AIDS and raise awareness about the risks.
Lack of Information and Resources
"Unfortunately, we often find that there is a significant lack of information about the risks, the disease, and the means of prevention. The public is also unaware of the specialized institutions and mechanisms available to them. They do not know who to turn to in case of suspected contamination," notes Ms. Mokrani.
Available Resources
However, Tunisia has four centers for the care of people living with HIV/AIDS, and there are five or six active associations in this field. The association is also working to raise awareness about the importance of prenuptial testing, which can help prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and STDs.
Combating Discrimination and Stigma
Raising awareness is also essential to combat discrimination and stigma against people living with HIV/AIDS. "In recent times, we have received significantly fewer reports of discriminatory and stigmatizing behavior towards people living with HIV/AIDS. These behaviors used to occur in hospitals, perpetrated by untrained medical staff and interns. However, as people become more aware of the disease, they are less likely to engage in such behaviors," adds Ms. Mokrani.
Conclusion
World AIDS Day is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the challenges that remain in the fight against HIV/AIDS. It is essential to continue raising awareness, promoting prevention, and combating discrimination and stigma to make the fight against AIDS more effective and fruitful.
